all supplies included · take home what you build
Spooky Tropical Terrarium Workshop | The Gateway Diner, Albany NY
Build a haunted little world in glass: layered sand, live tropicals, and whatever spooky things you want buried in the moss. Two hours, two days before Halloween, everything provided.
What you'll build
A spooky tropical terrarium in an 8" tall glass cylinder, 6" across. Big enough to be the thing on your table people pick up and turn around.
You layer the sand yourself, so the stripes come out however you want them. Then soil, moss, live tropicals, driftwood, and your decor: headstones, a ghost, a spider, whatever you reach for first. The glass is the whole point. Everything you build shows through it.
Your seat includes
🫙 Your 8" glass cylinder, 6" wide
🌿 Live tropical plants
🎨 Colored sand, your choice of layers
🪨 Soil, drainage, stone, and preserved moss
🪵 Driftwood accent
👻 Halloween decor pieces
🌱 Hands-on instruction from a Planter instructor
✨ Every tool you need, nothing to bring
📖 A care guide so it actually survives past Halloween
Good to know
The decor lifts out after October and the tropicals keep going year round, so this becomes a regular terrarium in November and a haunted one again next fall.
The Gateway's full food and drink menu is open, available for purchase. Order the fries. Come solo, come with your crew, come in costume if the mood strikes. Beginners are the whole point, so if you've killed every plant you've ever owned, you're in the right room.
Two nights before Halloween, and seating is limited. We cap every workshop so everyone gets real one-on-one time.
📍 899 Central Ave, Albany NY. Free parking on site.
What’s included
Each workshop includes your vessel, plants, and all supplies needed to create your project, plus step-by-step instructions. No experience needed.
Booking info
Reserve your spot online, then check in by name when you arrive. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time, and keep in mind that some venues only offer street parking.
Important info
Please arrive on time so you can settle in before we begin. Kids under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. You must be 21 years old or older to drink alcohol.
Cancellation policy
We understand plans change. Cancellations made within 48 hours can receive a credit. No refunds. No credits for no-shows.
What to expect
This is a hands-on creative experience where you’ll build your own terrarium step by step with guidance from our instructors. We’ll walk you through each layer, share care tips along the way, and send you home with a living piece you can enjoy long after the workshop.
About The Planter
The Planter creates hands-on plant experiences that feel creative, approachable, and fun. Our workshops are designed for beginners and plant lovers alike, with guided instruction and thoughtfully curated materials.
FAQ
Do I need any experience?
No — beginners are always welcome.
Are materials included?
Yes, your workshop includes the materials needed for the project.
Can I come with friends?
Absolutely. Just make sure each person reserves their own spot.